Secrets of the Semperoper
Germany
One of the most stunning Opera Houses in the world, it is indubitably worth visiting twice! Enhance your enjoyment of the performance through this behind-the-curtain experience that will take place earlier in your stay. Your expert host will discuss its architecture, set design and technology, and musical history. At a champagne reception, meet a soloist who will provide some insight into the upcoming production and may even give voice to a particular highlight or two.
Serenade at Sunset
Germany
While in Wartburg, experience an exclusive organ recital in a local church, followed by a sunset dinner in the halls of Wartburg Castle, where the melodies of Bach and Luther intertwine.
Serenade at the Cliffs
Ireland
Embark on an exclusive guided journey, revealing the grandeur of the Cliffs of Moher, Europe’s westerly embrace. As these towering cliffs command the rugged west Clare coast, be serenaded by the spontaneous melodies of traditional Celtic music, skillfully performed by a local virtuoso. Let the soulful tunes harmonize with the Atlantic’s symphony, guiding your steps along the cliffs’ edge and engraving a poetic melody of memories in your heart.
Shamrock Specialties
Ireland
Along the south-east coast of Ireland, you’ll find Waterford, the oldest city in the country. After taking in the beautiful views of Waterford Harbour, we will be the special guests of a local chef for a hands-on cooking class featuring traditional Irish and local specialties. After preparing these delicious treats, we will enjoy lunch together as we sample our creations.
Signed by Blüthner
Germany
Stop in Störmthal for a special visit of the Blüthner piano factory where Julius Blüthner’s ancestors continue his legacy to build the finest hand-crafted pianos. A member of the Blüthner family will welcome you with glass of champagne while relating the turbulent history of the company, as well as showing you how the pianos are made. Later, there will be a short recital in the factory’s own concert hall with works by Schumann and Mendelssohn.
Sissy’s Royal Retreat
Hungary
Embark on an exclusive journey to Queen Elizabeth’s beloved Godollo Palace, nestled in the picturesque Hungarian countryside. This private tour offers a captivating glimpse into the elegant retreats of “Queen Sissy,” complete with a personalized guided tour of the palace’s opulent rooms and gardens. The experience culminates in an intimate string quartet recital in the Palace’s Baroque Theatre, providing a unique and enchanting musical interlude that transports you back to the grandeur of a bygone era.
Soaring Soprano
Austria
Enjoy the acoustics of the soaring Melk Abbey, a masterpiece of the high Baroque, where our visit will include an a cappella soprano performance.
Sounds of Stradivarius
Italy
This special celebration of Stradivarius and his gifts to the world of strings takes place in Cremona. Relax with an espresso and enjoy the gentle scenes of Lombardy before reaching the Museo del Violino. The museum’s unique auditorium was built solely with the perfect acoustic in mind for playing strings, and it is here that two virtuosi will play a private concert for you on a violin and a cello handcrafted by Stradivarius himself, as well as a violin made by Guarneri del Gesù.
Spas and Gardens
Czech Republic
In the Czech capital of Prague, one of the most beautiful cities in Europe, you will stop at Teplice Spa where Beethoven was a guest in 1811. Also known as Lázeňský dům Beethoven, you’ll relax in these hot healing springs, walk through the spa gardens filled with incredible fountains, any take in a matinee at the architecturally fascinating Krušné Hory theatre.